Top 10 Under-The-Radar Destinations Filipinos Should Visit – Vienna, Berlin, New York

While hot spots like the Maldives and Thailand may have blown up your Instagram feed in 2017, this feature will be all about discovering amazing places off-the-beaten track. And trust us, there are plenty of incredible things and adventures awaiting the eager traveler in these cities and countries. From reinvented capitals to secluded island getaways, here are the top under-the-radar destinations according to these certified Filipino wanderlusters.

VIENNA – DANABELLE GUTIERREZ

“Art is alive in this city. From the graffiti on the walls to the street performers to the museums to the opera, there’s something about Vienna that makes you want to create and/or appreciate creation and the process of creating. Getting around is a piece of cake, too. Public transportation is affordable and convenient, but personally, I love walking in the city when the weather permits, it allows for more discovery of that Viennese magic.”

Make your way to the capital of Vienna for loads of desserts and a whole lot of history!

The Austrian capital is surely at its peak and most lively during December, but the beauty of this city is there to be breathed in all year round. With the large amount of cafes and coffee roasteries, restaurants, wineries and open-air swimming, your trip to this city will give you loads of IG-worthy photos that will make your friends jealous! But don’t just take photos. Enjoy the ambiance!

Here are some of the best Vienna destinations worth checking out:

Wiener Riesenrad

We’ve all heard of the London Eye, but Vienna has a version of that and it’s equally beautiful. Authentically vintage, this attraction was built in 1897 and also starred in the thriller movie The Third Man. The structure is more than 200ft tall and riding it really feels like stepping back in time! What’s a better way to see Vienna than having a magical view from the top.

The Palmenhaus

If you are all about nature and everything fresh, checking out The Palmenhaus might be one of your instant favorites while you’re in Vienna. It is situated in Burggaten Park and is probably the world’s grandest greenhouse! But it’s not just that because apart from the lush trees and plants from all over the world, this attraction also houses a restaurant and bar that serve Austrian delights!

Fürth Kaffee

After a full-day of admiring what seems to be an endless horizon of beauty, you might want to pause for a cup of coffee and desserts because, well — that is just part of Viennese life. Fürth Kaffee on Kirchengasse is a cafe part roastery and part co-working space so catching up on a few emails will be easy for you, plus you get to experience a stunning slice of modern Vienna while you are seated by the window with an espresso and some local pastry. Ah, what a life!

BERLIN – HANNAH MAGSAYO

“Berlin, Germany is one of the trendiest European destinations. The city has a special vibe and it is known for its independent personality and creative culture. Berliners seem to be relaxed and you can’t find any people rushing around the city. They love to go to the parks to chill, drink beer (metro, streets, basically anywhere) or do their own thing. Berlin was once named the ‘Hipster capital of the world’. In neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Neukölln, you’ll find tons of vibrant and artsy places where you can see graffiti, galleries, homegrown brands and musicians. With 24-hours nightlife, partying is like a religion and it has become the world capital of techno. You can find a lot of underground bars, alternative pubs, and clubs. On the other hand, If you are a world history lover, Berlin is also your city.”

Booming with life from sun up to sun down, a city where history and modernity coexist, we were intrigued by how this balance is possible in Berlin. So out of curiosity, we turned to Airbnb and asked some superhosts for advice on the best things to do when in Berlin. Here’s what they have to say:

Adreas – Sundays at Mauerpark

The flea market at Mauerpark is quite popular. It is frequently used as the Sunday afternoon activity hub by hip Berliners and tourists. Sunday Afternoon Cult: Karaoke at Mauerpark. The popularity of the flea market at Mauerpark partly stems from the karaoke sessions that take place at the amphitheater. From spring until autumn the place is packed with a crowd of curious people.

Daniel – Tempelhofer Feld

This is a former airport which has now been turned into a park. You can ride a bike or inline skates on the former runways. This place was the largest airport in the world when it opened and the former airport that was at the same location was actually the first civil airport in the world and until today the building is the 4th largest building worldwide.

Tally – Markthalle Neun

Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays there are excellent local farmers selling fruits, vegetables, meat, tofu, wine, cheese, olive oil, etc. It is the best local market in Berlin. Most days, there is a bakery open with excellent bread, pizza and some other treats. There are also a few places for lunch and a play area for children, as well as a small brewery. On Thursdays, there is a Street Food Market from 5pm to 10pm. The lines are generally long but there is food for everyone.

Imre – Museum Island

A small island in the middle of the river Spree, with a complex of five internationally significant museums: – Old Museum (Altes Museum) – New Museum (Neues Museum) – Old National Gallery (Alte National Gallery) – Bode Museum – Pergamon Museum. This place is perfect for those who want to see the arts and culture of Berlin!

NEW YORK – JULIE PEARL ORCULLO

“You cannot define New York in one word. Its beauty is in being a multicultural melting pot. You see everyone blending in no matter their race or status. It has flavors so familiar yet you can savor the fusion. If you crave for anything, there will always be something you can find available there. I say this, in New York, you can be anyone that you want to be. There is that sense of freedom in the air and the liberty to express yourself and experience it in all of its glory.”

The city that never sleeps! There’s plenty of things to do in the bustling Big Apple so be sure you’ve got enough energy to conquer this concrete jungle (where dreams are made of) — hello Alicia Keys!

Central Park

Located in Manhattan, Central Park is the nation’s first major urban public space, attracting 25 million visitors every year. It does not only impress NYC tourists, but it amazes and continues to attract loyal New Yorkers who make frequent visits. First opening in the mid-1800s, Central Park has appeared in multiple movies, television shows, and features as an important factor in many Hollywood storylines. Offering photo tours, music festivals, incredible views and fun dining experiences, Central Park is a perfect stop for all NYC tourists and truly encompasses the title, “The Heart of the City.”

Roberta’s

Covered in hip-hop-influenced graffiti is Roberta’s, a popular Italian-inspired pizza and local dining establishment in Bushwick. Don’t let the exterior deter you – urban decay becomes haughty elegance as you enter this surprisingly chic restaurant. Business casual attire seems status quo, and patrons are seated by bohemian yet professional hosts. The pizza is served in pies rather than by the slice, with additional meal options like coffee-roasted beets or cabbage and sea lettuce salad. Roberta’s is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, with weekend brunch and takeout available until midnight.

Brooklyn Museum

Among other great permanent works and roving exhibitions, the little-known Brooklyn Museum is the permanent home to an important collection of Feminist Art. Don’t miss the iconic Dinner Party installation by Judy Chicago (Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art, 4th Floor). Check their website for live music, lectures and performances. Admission price is a suggested donation.

Savage PR savant. Social Media guy. Bangkok advocate. Hoarder of 3AM songs that are too cool for anyone. Strongest proponent of the #WastedYouth campaign on Instagram. Alwee Villarosa could be your typical, garden variety switched-on millennial internaut, except that he’s infinitely more. He is also a cunning marketing strategist, a burgeoning writer, and an account manager and leader with an unshakeable sense of integrity and work ethic that belies his young age. See more of his POV at his IG: @alweevillarosa